Nikola Jokic's Availability Uncertain for Nuggets-Bulls Clash
The Denver Nuggets face potential uncertainty heading into their Saturday, February 7, 2026 matchup against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center. Star center Nikola Jokic has been officially listed as questionable on the NBA injury report due to a left ankle sprain, creating significant doubt about his participation in tonight's game.
Game-Time Decision for the MVP Candidate
The final determination regarding Jokic's status is expected to come much closer to tip-off, following a thorough evaluation during pregame warmups. Players designated as questionable typically have approximately a 50-75% chance of playing, but coaching and medical staff often make the ultimate call just before the game begins based on the athlete's condition and readiness.
If the Serbian big man is ultimately ruled out, the Nuggets' frontcourt strategy would undergo significant adjustments. Denver would likely rely more heavily on backup centers Jonas Valančiūnas and Zeke Nnaji to absorb additional minutes and responsibilities in the paint against Chicago's lineup.
Recent Injury History Complicates Situation
This ankle concern represents the second significant injury issue for Jokic in recent weeks. The reigning MVP previously missed 16 consecutive games throughout January 2026 while recovering from a left knee bone bruise and hyperextension, an absence that noticeably disrupted Denver's rhythm and consistency during that challenging stretch.
Jokic successfully returned to action on January 30 and proceeded to play four consecutive games before this new ankle problem emerged. During that brief return period, he posted impressive averages of 25.3 points, 12.0 rebounds, 6.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, demonstrating his usual elite production when healthy.
While his knee injury no longer appears on the official injury report, this fresh ankle complication now casts doubt on his availability as the Nuggets attempt to snap a troubling three-game losing streak that has hampered their momentum in the competitive Western Conference.
Broader Injury Context for Both Teams
The Nuggets enter this contest with a solid 33-19 record, positioning them third in the Western Conference standings. Their opponents, the Chicago Bulls, currently hold an 24-28 record and sit eleventh in the Eastern Conference.
Denver's injury concerns extend beyond Jokic's questionable status. The team will definitely be without Aaron Gordon, Peyton Watson, and Spencer Jones, all ruled out for this matchup. Guard Christian Braun is managing a minor ankle sprain but remains expected to play through the discomfort.
Should Jokic be cleared to participate, Chicago's defensive game plan will likely involve multiple defenders and schemes aimed at containing the versatile center while attempting to increase the game's tempo. If he's sidelined, Denver's offensive burden would shift more substantially to guard Jamal Murray alongside an expanded frontcourt rotation.
How to Monitor Final Status Updates
Fans and analysts seeking definitive news about Jokic's availability should monitor official channels approximately 90 minutes before tip-off. The most reliable updates typically come through Altitude Sports' pregame coverage and the Denver Nuggets' verified social media accounts. Any change in status will also be reflected in the NBA's official injury report leading up to game time.
As of the latest update on February 7, Nikola Jokic remains officially classified as a game-time decision for the Nuggets' crucial road contest against the Chicago Bulls, with his participation hinging on pregame evaluations and medical assessments.
